Aug
4
Speed, Safety and Cell Phones
Filed Under Auto Insurance, Auto Tips | Leave a Comment
According to the results of a research conducted by the Center for Auto Safety and Public Citizen on the safety effects of using cell phones and other wireless communications devices while driving, speaking on mobile phones while driving poses a higher risk of road accidents than drink-driving.
This observation has been seconded by a group of researchers in Utah who claim that drivers are more accident-prone while talking on their mobile phones – even hands free models – due to the inattention blindness induced during a telephonic conversation that increases their reaction time and reduces their ability to process visual information promptly.
These studies seem to have struck a chord with the US government which issued the new Wireless Communications Device Law, effective from January 1, 2009, which intends to regulate the use of wireless communications devices in motor vehicles. As per the law, the state considers it an infraction to write, send or read text-based message on an electronic wireless communications device, such as a cell phone, while driving a motor vehicle.
Though all agree that talking on a cell phone while driving is not only distracting but dangerous as well, not much has been done to change it. However, a number of insurance companies have decided to start charging higher premiums from their clients if they get caught talking on the phones while behind the wheels.
If you do not want to feel the pinch of such policies on your pocket, it would be wise to invest in a range of hands-free auto accessories that are available in the market. There is a wide range of cell phone devices available for people who need to stay connected on phone but constantly worry about taking a call while driving and having to pay a penalty for the same.
You can select from a wide array of cell phone car-kits, hands free devices, headsets, speakers, speakerphones and other automotive phone accessories so that you can drive with both hands even while attending a call. This will provide hands free mobility for you while driving, allowing you to talk and drive safely at the same time.
One of the key features that you should look for while buying hands-free auto accessories are that it should be compatible with multiple cell phone systems such as CDMA, TDMA, GSM, AMPS and PHS. Moreover, the car accessory kits that usually include a speaker phone, a headset and a hands free device should have echo cancellation and noise suppression feature, adjustable volume, earphone jack for privacy and a good quality holder, which preferably rotates 180 degrees for greater comfort while handling calls.
These hands-free car kits (HFCK) generally use Bluetooth as their wireless technology and include headsets as well as personal navigation devices (PND). Some of the latest HFCKS are equipped with voice recognition feature and allow the driver to connect to his or her phone even if it is left in the pocket, purse, backpack or briefcase.
With technology geared to add to the comfort of everyday life, this new generation of communication technology will definitely help keep the drivers’ hands on the wheels and their attention on the road.
Aug
25
Top 3 ways to save on your Car
Filed Under Auto Tips | Leave a Comment
Cars have become a necessity these days. Not all cars are cheap. You buy a car as per your budget and often take a loan too. Under such circumstances, it becomes necessary for you to take measures to save the money you spent on the car. In other words, you have to do something to keep your car safe.
The first and foremost step to take right after purchasing a car is to get the car insured. There are many types of car insurances available in the market. You can go through them and select the one that suits your needs. You may be a traveler who often needs to travel across states. In such a case, make sure that the insurance company accepts claims for damages done outside the state. It is better to go through all the fine print before buying the insurance. This step saves you a lot in case the car is damaged.
The second step is to keep your car well maintained. This you can achieve by following the instructions in the car manual. Each car comes with a manual that tells you what to take care of, including air pressure, changing brake oil and much more. In case you do not have the manual, you can get the information from the internet.
Finally, give the car to the garage at regular intervals. This makes sure that your car is checked for problems and faulty or damaged parts are replaced so that your car does not breakdown in middle of a travel. Following these steps will keep your car safe for years to come.